We worked up a load with Varget in the .308, found that you can use more powder and get slightly higher velocities than the blue coated bullets in this particular rifle. We used Win. or BHA brass and Win. primers, O.L. was 2.830". Seems since the XLC that Barnes bullet accuracy has jumped up a notch.

I shot some TSX's last Sat. Loaded some 168gr. with 78gr. RL22 for my .300WM I have found the opposite to be true for my Sako 75.
When I went to 79gr., accuracy dropped off from 78gr. about 1/2" The 78gr. seem to be about right. They shot right at 3/4-1/2 at best. I will try 78.5 this Sat.

Everybody I know is really trying to load them hot. I guess they feel the TSX can withstand more powder than a conventional bullet. Which it can. But, my Sako never liked hot loads. Less is more with that fickle b$&^h!!

Ive had great accuracy with all the Barnes line. From the "X" to the XLC, and now to the XXX.

I'll try IMR4831 and H4350 Sat. Good powders for SMK's.

The Barnes have a strange relationship to SMK's. Any SMK load that shoots great in my Sako, will transfer over to the "X''s to the brand powder and grain.

I realize that they are similar in design but, I have not had that happen with anything else..sakofan..

I have a 300 wsm in a 24" barrel and would love to get so info on barnes xxx results from both 180gr and the 168 gr, witch do you guys prefer? to me the 180 always seem to out preform the 168's at longer ranges????